THE PROPERTIES OF METALS
Writer-director Antonio Bigini brings Berlinale 73 audiences a story loosely based on a phenomenon magician Uri Geller made famous, the act of bending a spoon with his mind. In THE PROPERTIES OF METALS, we find young Pietro living with an abrasive father in a seemingly idyllic landscape of Italy. When the rumors of Pietro’s abilities bring inquiries from scientists, everyone sees it as an opportunity to escape the darker side of small-town living.
David Pasquesi plays Professor Moretti with a gentle air. His invested fascination with Pietro has genuine fatherly quality. His chemistry with Zaccara comes across as loving and curious. He had me hypnotized by his upbeat yet soft tone of voice. He was a joy to watch. Young Martino Zaccara is so engaging. His genuine innocence and firey spirit play well against Pasquesi. 
Pietro’s father only begins to invest his interest in his son’s life when his abilities might benefit him financially. The juxtaposition of his father and Professor Moretti is ceaselessly absorbing. Pietro’s friends slyly represent the adults in the film, each playing a separate role in their treatment of his potential gift. The issues of class, old world vs. new, and family dynamics loom large in the narrative. The film mixes elements of skepticism, belief, science, and faith. It is undeniably intriguing, richly shot, and brilliantly performed.
| Director | Antonio Bigini |
| Screenplay | Antonio Bigini |
| Cinematography | Andrea Vaccari |
| Editing | Ilaria Fraioli |
| Music | Simonluca Laitempergher |
Screening and Ticket information: THE PROPERTIES OF METALS
Urania
Tue Feb 2112:15
Cubix 8
Wed Feb 2210:00
Zoo Palast 2
Fri Feb 2418:30
Five Women Unpack the Deeply Entrenched Misogyny in Syria in this Intimate and Affecting Documentary
Ari Jan
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